Wildfire Lawyer Serving Lassen County, CA

Lassen County, CA is home to beautiful mountain ranges, stunning lakes, and the national forest bearing its name. However, with more than a million acres of forested land spread across Lassen County and the surrounding areas, it is highly susceptible to wildfires and widespread harm. Residents should be aware of potential hazards, have an evacuation plan in place, and contact a California utility wildfire attorney if they have been affected by a fire. 

At Danko Meredith, we represent clients who have been the victims of wildfires, especially those caused by local utility companies. When your home, life, and livelihood are threatened by fires that could have been prevented, we provide empathetic service and aggressive representation to get you results. We amplify your voice when you have suffered losses that should have been preventable. Our wildfire attorneys will not stop until you receive a settlement you are satisfied with. 

The Role of Utility Companies in Recent Wildfires

In recent years, utility companies throughout California have been increasingly responsible for contributing to the start and spread of wildfires. Some notable instances have included the Dixie Fire, Zogg Fire, Kincade Fire, and Butte Fire. The damage caused by these infernos was widespread and affected thousands of individuals throughout the affected areas. 

When these types of fires occur, local communities are impacted at great cost. Individuals may lose homes and businesses, forcing them to rebuild their lives. Wildfires can also impact the environment in these locations. Extensive damage caused by these fires may affect water and air quality, vegetation health, land stability, fish and wildlife, and more.  

Many of these tragic consequences could have been prevented if utility companies increased safety measures and precautions. When they fail to account for the condition of their equipment, its proximity to flammable brush, and environmental factors such as dry, windy conditions, they can spark a fire that quickly gets out of control. 

Factors Contributing to Utility Wildfires 

There are many reasons that utility-induced wildfires can start. Many of these stem from utility companies failing to install, maintain, or prevent equipment issues They often do not take enough safety precautions to avert fire risks that can be caused by:

  • Poorly installed utility lines
  • Insufficient maintenance and repairs
  • Inadequate training
  • Lack of inspections
  • Poor fire mitigation measures

This negligence can result in incidents such as explosions and electrical fires that in turn cause widespread harm. While they may take steps to prevent future harm after one of these disasters occurs, the efforts may seem hollow after significant damage has already been done, and done repeatedly.

California Wildfires and the Pacific Gas & Electric Company

Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is one of the largest utility companies in California, and has been one of the biggest offenders for causing wildfires throughout the state. Most recently, they were responsible for causing the Dixie Fire by failing to keep trees trimmed back far enough from electrical lines. 

The company has a long history of litigation and has navigated bankruptcy, but still manages to remain in operation. They have paid millions of dollars to avoid prosecution for contributing to more than 30 California fires, two of which caused massive damage. They are also under outside monitoring for a five-year period.  

Hiring Wildfire Lawyers Near Me Can Help Fight Back Against PG&E

Given their long history of contributions to California wildfires, homeowners have the right to file lawsuits against PG&E when safety standards are not met and lives are threatened. Part of the reason for these issues is that PG&E has a track record of putting profits ahead of people.

To help hold the company’s negligence in check, individuals need to pursue legal action when they have been wronged by PG&E. While corporations often employ large legal teams to protect themselves, it does not mean that you are without rights. You can file a lawsuit against them for their negligence. 

Additionally, when your home or property has been damaged by a wildfire caused by PG&E, they must compensate you for damage to your property under the laws of inverse condemnation. This means that when you have suffered damage resulting from a utility-related fire, even if they did not directly cause it, they can be held liable for the loss of your property. In these situations, the company must also pay for the cost of your attorney fees. 

It is important to talk to a wildfire law firm about PG&E wildfire claims when you have suffered losses caused by the utility company giant. A lawyer will not only provide you with valuable direction to help you get the most effective results, but also help you fight back against PG&E’s negligence and poor practices. 

How to Prepare for a Wildfire in Lassen County

Regardless of whether or not a fire is sparked by a utility company, it is important to be prepared for a wildfire and protect yourself to the best extent possible. The right action can save your life when a fire occurs. To keep yourself, your family, and your home safe in the event of a wildfire, take the following precautions to prepare for a wildfire:

  • Harden the outside of your harm and your landscapes so they are better able to resist flames
  • Ensure there is enough defensible space around your home to slow and minimize the spread of a fire
  • Create an evacuation plan and evacuation supply kit
  • Do not wait to evacuate if there is a wildfire in your area

What to Do After a Lassen County Wildfire

If you had to evacuate your home during a wildfire, you may not know what you will find when you go back home. Once you are allowed to return to your residence after a wildfire, there are certain steps that should be taken for your safety, and for claim purposes. These actions are important in order to prevent injuries from unforeseen dangers, and ensure you receive a favorable outcome that will provide sufficient monetary relief for your situation. 

For safety purposes, take these precautions when returning home after a wildfire:

  • Check for embers, smoke, and other signs that a fire may be smoldering or not be extinguished completely
  • Ensure appliances are turned off before turning on electricity
  • Check to see if there is damage to electrical or gas equipment outside or near your home
  • Report suspected gas leaks
  • Check to see if phones, security systems, and wells are working
  • Cautiously remove debris 
  • Follow advisories from local emergency personnel
  • Avoid areas where trees or power lines may be structurally unsound

To file an insurance claim and ensure a favorable outcome, these are the first steps to take after a wildfire: 

  • Request a copy of your insurance policy
  • Take photos and videos of your property before removing debris
  • Keep all records and documentation of damages, injuries, and related expenses and losses
  • Make a list of everything you have lost
  • Hire a wildfire lawyer near me

Compensation Helps Lassen County Residents Recover From Wildfire Losses

Wildfires cause widespread destruction as they spread, and you could be facing significant losses if your home or business was in the path of the flames. You may have also suffered injuries or the death of a loved one because of the fire. The amount and value of the damage you sustained can be overwhelming, and you may not be financially prepared to deal with the aftermath.

Compensation in a wildfire case is designed to offset your devastating losses and cover the costs of your property and personal injury losses. The exact value can vary depending on the specifics of your situation and losses. Your lawyer can help you identify all the losses you have suffered and calculate the value so you know how much to seek during the course of your lawsuit. You may be able to receive more than one type of financial compensation, and could include some of the options below.

Economic Damages

Economic damages typically provide relief for financial losses. They are determined by adding up the value of each loss to determine the total amount of compensation you are owed within this category. Some common types of losses that are covered by economic damages includes:

  • Medical and treatment costs for injuries you sustained during the fire. These can include both your existing, known costs, and the value of anticipated costs if you require ongoing or long-term care in the future. 
  • Damage to your property and personal belongings. This can cover the value of the damages and cost to replace or rebuild the physical losses you suffered. 
  • Reduction or lost income from lack of work. Severe injuries or property damage may prevent you from being able to work at partial or full capacity for a limited period of time or indefinitely, and damages can ease this burden.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages put a tangible number to an intangible loss. Wildfires are traumatic experiences that lead to much pain and suffering. Compensation can be determined through a couple of different methods, and it is best to talk with a wildfire attorney near me for a more exact amount. Losses that are considered non-economic include: 

  • Pain, suffering and emotional and mental distress. These cover the various types of trauma you may have experienced as a result of the wildfire, as well as any symptoms of PTSD you may be dealing with. 
  • Reduction in the quality of your life. The aftermath of the fire is likely to prevent you from living life in the same manner that you did previously. It may also prevent you from enjoying the same activities. 
  • Loss of companionship or consortium. Wildfires can cause injury to you or result in the death of a spouse or family member. This deprives you of the relationship and its emotional, social, and physical benefits. 

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are typically not used unless specific circumstances apply. If a wildfire was started because a utility company exhibited gross negligence or an act of malice, a judge may force them to pay punitive damages as a form of punishment, and ease your burden for the extreme losses you have suffered. 

Miscellaneous Compensation

Aside from damages that can be recovered from a legal claim, there are other sources of compensation California residents may access to cover their losses and help them recover. These sources include the Fire victim Trust and the California Department of Insurance. Talk to your lawyer about other potential resources as well. 

Claims for Personal and Property Losses Must be Filed Before the Statute of Limitations Expires

When seeking relief for what you have lost in a utility wildfire, you must remain mindful of the state’s statute of limitations. Failing to file a lawsuit within this period of time will likely bar you from recovering your losses. In California, there are two time limits that may apply:

It is important to talk with a wildfire attorney in Lassen County, CA to understand what statute of limitations applies to your case, and if there are any situation-specific adjustments to the normal timeline. 

Despite the allotment of time provided, filing a claim soon after the accident allows you to receive compensation faster and have a stronger case. Evidence is the most viable right after an accident, and waiting too long might cause it to degrade and hurt your claim and settlement outcome. 

Wildfire Attorneys Near Me Stand Up to Utility Companies

Suffering injuries or losing a home or loved one to a wildfire is heartbreaking and overwhelming. The thought of taking legal action may seem daunting, especially when it means going up against a corporation like PG&E and their legal teams. However, wildfire lawyers in Lassen County, CA will not hesitate to fight for you and protect your rights. Negligence by utility companies have serious consequences and they must be held accountable for their actions. 

When you hire a lawyer to represent you after a utility-induced wildfire, you will receive support from highly-skilled lawyers who have extensive experience handling wildfire cases. Your case is their top priority, and they will devote the time and attention needed to understand and prepare for your case. They will use effective strategies tailored to your situation, and will aggressively fight for you to get the relief and closure you need to move forward. 

Your lawyer will investigate the various factors that led to the wildfire, and gather evidence to reflect this. They will also compile other relevant forms of evidence to show that the utility company acted negligently. Utility companies have a duty of care to not cause harm to residents, and are supposed to take the necessary steps to prevent accidents. When they disregard these responsibilities by failing to maintain equipment, wildfires can start that directly lead to your losses. By establishing their negligence, they can be held liable for your claim.  

In addition to your legal claim, your lawyer can also help you deal with insurance companies when they balk at paying you fairly, deny your claim outright, or drop your coverage. Your lawyer will advocate for you to be treated fairly by negotiating with the insurance company on your behalf. They will take steps to put the insurance company on notice for their poor behavior, and secure results for you and your family.

Danko Meredith Provides Accessible Representation After a Wildfire

With the extensive damages you may be facing from a wildfire, adding another expense by hiring a lawyer may feel impossible. This is why Danko Meredith provides clients a contingency fee model so they can receive the legal help they need, and are not left defenseless against corporations like PG&E. 

With this fee structure, you do not pay us unless we win your case. Upon winning, we deduct our attorney fees from the damages you recover. As such, you do not have to come up with money to pay us out of your own pocket. The benefit of this model is that legal representation is accessible, and you can trust that your lawyer has prioritized your goals.

Danko Meredith Will Not be Out-Lawyered

Danko Meredith understands the destruction and devastating losses you may face in the aftermath of a wildfire. When you need help recovering from the effects of wildfires, our team is committed to securing the compensation you need to help you get back on your feet. Mike Danko has been representing victims of PG&E fires for more than 30 years, and has extensive experience to champion your case and get you justice. 

View our client testimonials online and contact us, or call our offices at (650) 910-7565 to schedule a free consultation today and learn more about us and how we can serve you.